I have written and re-written the opening to this blog post a number of times. As I listened to NPR, the announcer began reporting on the Senate confirmation hearings of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court. I thought a Supreme Court nomination has to be the toughest job interview ever! Then the announcer began discussing how the dynamics of the Supreme Court may change again with her appointment. (Justice Sonia Sotomayor was appointed in August 2009). I thought to myself if Ms. Kagan is confirmed as a justice to the Supreme Court, she will be the new hire. Eureka, I had an introduction and focus to this blog post.
The appointment of a new judge to the nine member Supreme Court can alter how cases are heard and decided. If confirmed Ms. Kagan’s experience, perception and opinion on matters brought before the court will alter the way the justices work as a unit. Literally, changing the group dynamics of their work environment. Changes directly influenced by her being the new hire.
Being the new hire means excitement for the possibilities of what you can and will do in your new position. However, the addition or rehiring of one person can alter the dynamics of an organization in how work is completed and the emotional stability of the group itself. Even the circumstances for your selection to the position will have a ripple effect on the group i.e. layoffs, forced retirements or restructuring. You will need to be savvy in knowing how to come onboard, gain respect and become a member of the group.
Consider whether your new organization has experienced layoffs, replacements, or retirements in the last 12mos. Members of your work group may be anxious, depressed or feel emotionally heavy as they adjust to a new “normal.” The Wall Street Journal’s Coping as a New Hire in a Dispirited Firm offers some tips and strategies for fitting in.
Generation status (Millennial, Gen-X, or Baby Boomer) will influence group dynamics as well. At the 2010 NCDA conference, Jason Dorsey spoke about interpersonal relationships between generations in the workplace. Specifically, Gen-X and Millennials having difficulty. While Millennials and Baby Boomers work well together. Difference? Approach to completing work. You’ll want to have a one on one conversation to learn more about each others work style.
Take the time to talk with your supervisor about your role about the following:
- Dynamics of the Work Group: Who works well together and who doesn’t? In this way, you can avoid getting drawn into power struggles that impede your work.
- Informal Leaders: Is there someone who makes a great mentor to new hires? He/She can give you tips and strategies for how to fit in with the group to get your job done.
- Seniority: Talk with the most senior member of the group. He/She will have a knowledge of the organization beyond what is written on paper to help you work more effectively.
These are just a few things to consider as the new hire.
Update: Elena Kagan was sworn in as the 112th Supreme Court Justice on 7 August 2010.
Tristana
If you have a career related question, send me an email at career_planning at hotmail dot com.
